Category Archives: City

I-17 southbound reduced to one lane until Saturday north of Cordes Junction

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Southbound Interstate 17 will be reduced to one lane until Saturday, December 24, at Orme Road, between State Route 169 and State Route 69, as crews make critically needed repairs at the bridge, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

ADOT normally doesn’t perform work requiring lane restrictions over holiday weekends, but engineers have determined that these repairs, involving concrete on the bridge approach, must be performed immediately.

I-17 is narrowed to one lane between mileposts 270 and 269 approaching Cordes Junction. Northbound travel isn’t affected.

Southbound I-17 motorists should plan for delays, proceed through the work zone carefully and watch for construction personnel and equipment. While the work is scheduled to be completed on Saturday, bad weather can delay completion of projects.

Chance of rain all week with a snow likely Christmas eve

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WILLIAMS/FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff and Williams can expect about the same weather pattern over the Christmas holiday. Clouds are expected to blow in tonight and through tomorrow on 7-mph winds. Wednesday is expected to be partly sunny with a high near 50. The chance of precipitation in the form of rain starts Wednesday night. Rain and low temperatures overnight will cause icy conditions on roads and highways, so drivers should take caution.

ADOT reminds visitors and residents NOT to park along the highway to enjoy the snow. Take an exit and get off of the freeway if you want to check out the weather. Preferably at a safe location such as Bellemont, Flagstaff, Williams or some other area where you can park safely.

On Wednesday night there is a 30% chance of rain after 11 p.m. with a low of around 32 overnight. The winds are expected to be light, but any wind will make it feel colder.

On Thursday there is a 60% chance of rain with a high near 49 and winds of about 6-mph. The chance of rain continues overnight with a low of about 34 and winds calming.

Friday a 30% chance of showers is expected, but it should be partly sunny with temperatures in the mid-40s. Friday night there is a 20% chance of showers with a low around 33.

Saturday, Christmas Eve, is expected to be breezy, around 38-degrees with a chance of rain and snow. Williams may wake up to a white Christmas with snow likely Saturday night and a low temperature of 20-degrees. There is a slight chance of continuing snow on Christmas day and continuing throughout the night. The high will be near 33 dropping to 17 overnight. The chance of building a snowperson is slight.

This weather pattern should clear up Monday with temperatures remaining in the mid-30s through Tuesday during the day and dropping to the low-20s overnight.

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

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PHOENIX – Snow in Arizona’s high country is a magnet for desert dwellers looking to ski, sled, make snowmen and have snowball fights.

Too often, however, a vehicle full of people heading to play in the snow winds up parked on the shoulder of a state highway or even Interstate 17 rather than pulled safely into a designated parking area well off the road. This creates a hazard for more than just the occupants.

“It’s dangerous for the driver who stops on the highway and for other drivers who might be distracted by your vehicle. It’s also dangerous for first responders who may need access to the shoulder to help someone,” said Audra Merrick, district engineer for the Arizona Department of Transportation’s North Central District. “As tempting as it can be, never stop along the highway to play in snow.”

With snow in the forecast this weekend for the Flagstaff area, ADOT reminds those heading to sled and throw snowballs that highway shoulders are for emergencies and that parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in a number of ways:

Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances.

These dangers apply along highways other than interstates, including US 180 northwest of Flagstaff, where those from lower elevations often flock after it snows. Those who park on highway shoulders to play, even in areas where traffic may seem light, are endangering themselves and others. Locations of designated snow-play areas around Flagstaff are available at flagstaffarizona.org (click the Winter Snow Play link) or by calling 1-844-256-SNOW.

Those heading to enjoy winter in Arizona’s high country should learn how to prepare for extended time in cold, snow and ice, as well as how to be ready for potentially harsh driving conditions, by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

ADOT’s suggestions of items to have in a vehicle include warm clothing and blankets, a fully charged mobile phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, drinking water, healthy snacks, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Get plenty of rest, plan your route and take frequent breaks from driving.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work. Snow tires, chains or studded tires may be required depending on the conditions.

Wherever they are traveling in Arizona, drivers need to be prepared for possible delays caused by crashes or heavy traffic. Another cause of congestion during the winter is the popularity of snow-play areas. Those playing in the snow along US 180, for example, may need 90 minutes or more to get back to Flagstaff at day’s end, especially after it snows and over holiday weekends.

“It’s very important that drivers know what they’re heading into when they come up to play in the snow,” Merrick said. “Our crews are committed to keeping the highways open and safe, but weather, road conditions and traffic can change quickly, so leave prepared.”

A disappointing snowfall for Williams

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WILLIAMS — After the heavy rainfall throughout the day yesterday, Williams was expecting a little more snowfall than they woke up to. For the most part it was simply icy roads and slippery sidewalks and cold.

The weather kept the Williams Fire Department awake a better part of the night as they stood by an arching transformer to prevent a catastrophic fire. Power failed in the area of Edison and fluctuated throughout the City of Williams through the night.

The Super-8 motel reported a power outage this morning. The Williams Police Department is investigating other power outages in the area of Bearizona. Bearizona could not be contacted for confirmation. Sherwood Forest is out of power. Some emergency services are reporting problems with their repeater on Mingus Mountain.

Thankfully there have not been any major incidents reported on the freeway.

The Boxcar Bridge, in Williams, was able to withstand the snowfall of last night.

While Williams proper may have received a little snow, the outlying areas usually experience more snow. There may be the predicted two-inches of snow out Perkinsville Road, on Highway 64 and other areas.The next predicted chance of snow, according to the long range forecast, will be Friday with a slight chance predicted.

As winter storm intensifies, be prepared for rain, wind and snow

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PHOENIX — A winter storm packing rain, wind and, later, the possibility of light snow and ice in the high country is all the more reason for Arizonans to drive with care and adjust their speed to conditions.

While much of the state is expected to see rain Friday, the forecast for many areas also calls for sustained winds of between 30 and 40 mph and even stronger gusts. Beginning Friday night, a cold front will lower snow levels to around 5,000 feet and drop temperatures, meaning drivers in Arizona’s high country should be prepared for the possibility of light snow accumulating as well as ice on the road.

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow drivers are ready to deal with snow and ice, and ADOT’s website offers tips for driving in the rain, in wind that reduces visibility and around snow and ice.

Here are some of them:

  1. Slow down and be aware of the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
  2. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This helps prevent sudden braking, which can cause you to slide on wet or icy pavement.
  3. Before you drive, inspect your windshield wipers, and replace them if necessary.
  4. Turn on your headlights while driving in bad weather.
  5. If you’re planning to drive in the high country, consult ADOT’s Know Snow winter-driving tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. These start with wearing warm clothing, having a fully charged cellphone and making sure your tank is at least half full at all times.

For the most current information about highway conditions and restrictions statewide, visit ADOT’s Travel Information Site at az511.gov, follow us on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) or call 511.

Using the Force to keep drivers safe

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PHOENIX —Staying focused is a primary defense against car crashes and staving off intergalactic doom. That’s right: We’re bringing together vehicle safety and Star Wars. Again.

In the past year, the Arizona Department of Transportation has placed unconventional safety messages on overhead signs. This is by design. We want to grab people’s attention and make them engage with important safety messages. Often, these messages will relate to current events or pop culture.

With “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” premiering this week, motorists on Arizona’s highways will see Star Wars-themed safety messages on overhead signs.

Remember, whether you’re working to steal plans that will lead to the destruction of a 134-quadrillion-ton Death Star or driving down the road, remaining focused and undistracted are key to staying safe.

Heavy winds and rain today in Williams

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WILLIAMS — Santa’s reindeer could not take the high winds and the Zipline is closed as Williams experiences its predicted rain. The rain began in the early hours of the morning and has continued throughout the day. It might be nice for those taking the Polar Express tonight as snow is predicted for the late afternoon throughout the night. Up to two inches is possible.

The rain is heavy rain is accompanied by high winds of about 15-mph with gusts up to about 25-mph. The temperature is about 45, but the chill factor is making it feel about ten- to fifteen-degrees cooler.

There is a 10% chance of snow Saturday morning clearing up to sunny skies by the afternoon. The long-range forecast currently shows sunny skies and temperatures rising to around the mid-40s through the week. The lows start out at 1round 15 raising to the mid-20s by Thursday night. A chance of showers picks up on Friday.

Traffic on the highway seems to be running smoothly with only one accident reported at about milepost 140 near Ash Fork at about 2:15. One of the occupants suffered minor injuries.

We remind drivers that as the temperatures drop and snow begins, ice will be a major hazard. Please slow down.

Fatal off-highway vehicle accidents serve as reminders to practice OHV safety

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department reminds all off-highway vehicle (OHV) drivers and passengers to wear the proper safety gear and ride responsibly in the wake multiple separate accidents.

Since Thanksgiving, three people have died in accidents on OHVs. The first occurred in Mohave County after an ATV rolled, killing an 11-year-old female passenger and injuring the 12-year-old driver, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office.

The second accident claimed the life of a veteran Phoenix Fire captain who rolled the side-by-side he was driving while on an elk hunt south of the Grand Canyon, according to the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office.

Over the weekend, an 18-year-old Arizona State University student died after his ATV collided with a tree.

“It only takes a split-second for tragedy to strike,” said Josh Hurst, AZGFD Off-Highway Vehicle Program coordinator. “The last few weeks have shown us that OHV accidents can happen to anybody at any time and that is why all riders and their passengers should wear the proper safety equipment at all times. Helmets save lives.”

Riders and operators are reminded that helmets are required by law for all riders under the age of 18 regardless of the off-highway vehicle type. However, they are strongly recommended for all riders. In addition riders should remember to:

  • Wear a seat belt at all times, if equipped.
  • Only carry the number of passengers recommended by the manufacturer for your vehicle. Often many accidents are the result of too many people riding a machine that was designed for fewer passengers.
  • Wear riding goggles, a long-sleeved shirt, pants, riding gloves and over-the-ankle boots.
  • Never ride alone.
  • Be prepared and equipped with a map, a first aid kit, whistle and have basic tools on hand.
  • Stay on designated trails.
  • Take an OHV safety education course designed to teach off-road motorists how to ride safely and responsibly.

For more information about the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s OHV program and safety course options, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.

Specialty plates bring in $66 million for worthy causes since 2007

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Commercial/Griphic Artist
College – PLATT
College – AWC

PHOENIX — What goes on the back of your vehicle, looks great and makes a lot of money for a worthy cause? A specialty license plate from the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division does, and more of them are on the way.

Since fiscal 2007, the total revenue generated from the sale of specialty license plates has reached $66 million. Those funds support causes including cancer awareness and research, child abuse prevention, environmental awareness, organ donation, university scholarships, veterans’ programs and quite a few more.

“The specialty plate program is a real point of pride for Arizona and is a tremendous success,” said MVD Director Eric Jorgensen. “To have raised $66 million since 2007 proves Arizonans are both generous and eager to support great causes. Even during the depth of the economic downturn a few years ago, these revenues went up and that trend is continuing today.”

Starting December 19, three new plates will be made available. The Grand Canyon University plate will raise funds for academic scholarships. Historic preservation funds will be raised by the Historic Route 66 plate. A Special Olympics plate will support that organization’s sports, health and leadership programs.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to have a Grand Canyon University-themed license plate,” said GCU Communications Director Bob Romantic. “It’s a way for people to not only show pride in the university but also support academic scholarships that make it possible for many students to attend college.”

A fourth plate, for the 100 Club/First Responders, will soon be available pending completion of the plate design. Those funds will go toward scholarships for family members of public safety officers and firefighters.

Specialty plates typically cost $25. Of that, $17 is committed to the benefiting organization. For more information about specialty plates including how to order, please visit ServiceArizona.com or azdot.gov/mvd.

The specialty plate program was established by state law in 1989.

Changes to signal timing mean big benefits for Phoenix drivers

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PHOENIX — It may not be surprising to hear that coordinating the timing of city traffic signals and those at two busy Interstate 17 interchanges will save drivers time.

But the Arizona Department of Transportation and its partners, the city of Phoenix and Maricopa Association of Governments, have taken it a step further by adding up the time saved and its dollar value for a project involving Camelback and Indian School roads.

The answer: Motorists are expected to save 350,000 hours of travel time, worth $6.2 million, per year.

“Continuous improvement is ADOT’s culture and is reflected in both large and small things that the ADOT team does every day. Sometimes a seemingly small change that makes better use of resources can mean big improvements,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “Drivers are already seeing a time savings from this coordination. Saving time means saving money and more time with family, friends and things you enjoy doing.”

“The ADOT team’s challenge is to keep improving time savings and promote efficiency for Arizona’s taxpayers,” Halikowski added.

“When ADOT, MAG and the city of Phoenix work together strategically, the public is the beneficiary,” Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said. “Properly timing the traffic signals at these busy intersections will ease congestion, which gets commuters home sooner, saves fuel and keeps our air cleaner.”

A project funded by Maricopa Association of Governments’ Traffic Signal Optimization Program studied traffic signal timing at the Camelback and Indian School interchanges and nearby city streets and recommended a number of improvements. The project developed a common cycle length for all traffic signals near those interchanges and the best timing for the morning and evening commutes.

ADOT and Phoenix made these recommended changes, leading to significant improvements in travel times at these locations. An independent study by ADOT staff identified the benefits in time saved.

Besides saving motorists time, these adjustments are expected to improve safety by reducing the number of stops drivers must make and time spent waiting at traffic lights. Shorter travel times and fewer stops also reduce fuel consumption and air pollution.

ADOT and Phoenix continue to evaluate other I-17 corridor interchanges to see if changes in signal coordination can improve traffic flow elsewhere.